Vibes

ane__5

Cuando te permites lo que mereces, atraes lo que necesitas 🩵

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#nature #landscape #naturalpool #hotspring #clearwater #dog #mountaingirl #love #world_bestnature #instant_es #autumnvibes #perfect_capture #beautifulpic #wildlife #adventure #paradise #strong #travelling #natureshot #vegangirl #nomad #exploremore #awesomeplaces #lifestyle #bnw #earth_focus #photography #dream_image #picoftheday #📷

News and views on hot soak and assorted culture of Europe.

News from the hot springs. 

Timeout Budapest on the Gellert baths news (Oct. 1):

'Spas are a huge part of Budapest’s cultural fabric – and the Gellért, a legendary art nouveau spa richly decorated with Zsolnay tiling, is one of the most iconic venues in the city.

However, as of today (October 1), you won’t be able to visit the Gellért until 2028, as the century-old spa – first opened in 1918 – is closing for three years of renovation. Reconstruction work will now run alongside the overhaul of the equally venerable hotel of the same name, which has been closed since November 2021.

The primary consideration in the project is the preservation of the historical heritage: the restoration of the art nouveau interiors, tiling and aesthetic appearance. In addition, sustainability and energy-efficient solutions will be introduced, by modernising the use of thermal water and heating.

According to plans, the changing rooms will be unified, and a new sunbathing terrace, a modern wellness area and panoramic garden sauna will be created'.

Over to Baden (Switzerland), where they celebrated Badsgemeinde 2025! ❤️ (source). Translated:

'On the 28th. & 29. In August we celebrated the first implementation of the Badsgemeinde on the Kurplatz, Baden. We spent the whole program in a temporary basin filled with fresh thermal water. The GV of the cooperative Bad zum raven was held, debated under the moderation of Monika Schärer, the future Bad zum raben auctioned by Simon Balissat @sigats and a poem by Simon Libsig @simonlibsig given to the best. At the end, there was a concert by Strello under the starry sky in Baden. ✨

yvisflowers

So many exciting things happening right now:

🪶we are in the final part of the build of our home in wheels (soon we will share more)

🪶we are soon moving to a new house… I lived here since I was 18

🪶a person that lives far away but that I love deeply is coming to visit very very soon

🪶we are attending an amazing festival this weekend (the festival cancelled due to weather forecast :(((, but it has been rescheduled for sometime soon 🌝🫶)

Honestly, our head has been in the clouds for the whole year, we cannot believe everything unfolding in front of us. 🤍

Open to everything that’s coming next.

Happy to share here more details soon 😆

Skai.gr has a vdo on the mud baths / hot springs of Krinides. There is the possibility to autotranslate the vdo. 

Briefly: they want to extend the summer mud bathing season, earlier and later in the year (before mid-June and after September). 

Whether or not it's only for the reportage, but clothesfree mudbathing seems to have been discontinued. Question mark. Note: recent photo's are less clothed (Sep. 24).

Staying with mudbaths. And vdo's. Nowness has a feature vdo (Aug. 25) on the mudbaths of Akhtala. Description:

'Travelling to Georgia, director Sasha Kulak observes the mud between the softly exhaling landscape, to the full-body treatments that transfer its restorative powers, for the short film The Great Mud of Akhtala. Against storytelling passed through generations and understanding shaped by engaging with this strange landscape, the short documentary captures the profound respect that connects the spa’s visitors and practitioners, seeking its healing mud to restore balance and wellbeing in accordance with nature'.

Vanlife: Il Bollore

Bagni di San Filippo Siena province Italy

Wandering Carol visits (and reports, Nov. 9) on Bath, UK's only thermal spring, though much of the attraction is due to the Roman remains of their original bath. It does though look like it's an original post, rehashed again. Very glowing all, suppose if it's all you have, then it must be very precious.

Earlier (Aug. 5), Carol also reported back from Baden-Baden.

feelgoodbathing 

At 39°, waters enriched with minerals flow like liquid silk, wrapping the body in warmth while lush greenery surrounds every pool 🌿♨️⁣⁣

⁣⁣

Here, volcanic origins meet garden calm — a sanctuary where bathing is both deeply soothing and beautifully restorative.⁣⁣

♨️ Terra Nosta Park Hotel, Azores⁣

Suggested

Sauna business then.

A missed opportunity. Badstufest 2025 [Sep. 19-21] is a collaboration between the Norwegian Sauna Association and a group of sauna operators in Southern Norway [Arendal]. 

'The festival is a celebration of Norwegian sauna culture, but first and foremost a good excuse to gather people who really enjoy saunas, nature and good vibes for a hot autumn weekend by the sea'.

Not to be missed: International Sauna Congress 2026 (Sep. 24–26), in Oslo, Norway. Billed as world's largest sauna event. Without reference as to what marks it as largest.

A report (KW Magazine, Sep. 3) on a community sauna in the center of the Flemish city of Kortrijk. Translated:

The founders envision the space as more than just a sauna. "Dreaming and building a place where we can meet without class and freedom," they say. Their core values ​​are clear: creating through connection, accessible, and open to everyone. The sauna grows with its community and must be able to stand on its own. The result is an eight-person infusion sauna, equipped with a plunge pool, cold shower, and a cozy atmosphere. Admission is pay-as-you-can, with a suggested price of five euros''.

Some sauna culture?

Vegoutmagazine has an article (Sep. 22) on experiencing a German sauna:

'The biggest shock isn’t the nudity; it’s what the nudity dismantles: your self-consciousness.

Ten minutes in, your inner critic is too sweaty to speak. Bodies blur into bodies.

Scars, bellies, boobs, flat, round, old, young—none of it matters. This isn’t a nightclub; it’s a human defrosting drawer. That modesty panic you anticipate? It drains away in the steam.

You will become very aware of your towel (good), your breathing (better), your heartbeat (hello, you), and—surprise—your appetite.

There’s always a café. And yes, there will be cakes, pretzels, soup, a beer or an apple spritzer, maybe a potato salad that tastes like your grandparents would approve.

Shock five: you will eat after being naked with strangers and feel absolutely fine. More than fine—normal, companionable, like you’ve been through a tiny, polite rite together.

My first time, I sat in a robe, hair wet and wild, dunking a pretzel into mustard, and felt… wealthy.

Not money wealthy. Nervous-system wealthy'.

huumsauna

In Estonia, we have a saying: “Naised saunas rääkisid,” which translates to “Women in sauna talked.” And it’s more than just a phrase.. It captures exactly how sauna encourages genuine connection.

Outside the sauna, conversations might stay polite, short, or even superficial. But step into the gentle heat, surrounded by calming steam, and suddenly barriers fall away. You’re relaxed, honest, and ready to share openly.

Beyond its many physical health perks - like better circulation, detoxification, and muscle recovery - sauna time significantly boosts our mental wellbeing. It encourages authentic conversations, strengthens bonds, and helps ease social anxieties and feelings of loneliness.

Sauna truly brings people closer 🤎

Have you noticed that sauna makes conversations flow more freely? 💬

.

#huumsauna #sauna #saunalife #saunatime #saunawisdom #saunatraditions #nordiclife #nordicliving #nordicstyle #saunaselfie #saunabenefits

An Irish experience (Irish Independent, Nov. 7) of an Austrian sauna experience. Which was naked. And this was repeated oft enough in the article. As in:

'And now, sloppy globs of shea butter are being ladled into my hands. As the only non-German speaker in the steam room, I’m not entirely sure why… until I see my naked brethren rubbing it all over their bodies. I follow suit, and we let it sink in before all leaping into the icy cold lake, modesty be damned'.

The Times concerns itself (Nov. 8) about the rules concerning taking a sauna. Because on the British Isles it's becoming a thing:

'Brits are finally catching up: the British Sauna Society counted more than 400 public saunas across the UK this year, up from 45 in 2023. If you’re a newbie, here’s what you need to know'.

• Is it healthy? A(nswer): yes, 
• What makes a sauna good? ?
• Naked? A.: it's common somewhere else ...,
• How long? A.: fifteen- twenty minutes,
• Cold plunge? A. a short dip is fine,
• How hot is too hot? A.: depends.

A longer reference. 

Starting with the French Naturisme magazine (Oct. 21) which highlights an article (in German) published by Swiss 20min.ch (Oct. 20) on the sauna divide through the country. Swiss but talking German: naked. Others: not.

Translated from French:

'20minutes specifies that "in German-speaking Switzerland, nudity is part of an authentic spa experience and people are less prudish. In addition, saunas and hammams are very popular, especially urban couples under 40. In French-speaking Switzerland, on the other hand, aesthetics, architecture and light take precedence. Well-being is less about sweating and steam jets, but more about massages, perfumes and design, the study concludes ."

...

For its part, LeMatin notes that "Nationally, more than half the population feels uncomfortable in the presence of naked strangers. In German-speaking Switzerland, however, this barrier is much less pronounced: for many, nudity is an integral part of the authentic spa experience. In French-speaking Switzerland, on the other hand, the need for privacy and discretion prevails."

In France, if the survey were done…nudity would not win, the fear of “exhibitionists” in saunas means that the vast majority of establishments offering saunas require the wearing of swimsuits.

The original article (by 20min) has 180+ comments, mostly echoing the article which itself is based on a questionaire by Baden's Fortyseven.

_lydia.selenofilia

𝑆𝑖 𝑎𝑚𝑎𝑠 𝑙𝑎 𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑧𝑎,

𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑟𝑎́𝑠 𝑏𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑧𝑎 𝑒𝑛 𝑡𝑜𝑑𝑎𝑠 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑠..

𝙎𝙤𝙮 𝙁𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙚 𝙡𝙤 𝙦𝙪𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙙𝙖 𝙋𝙖𝙯 🌿⛰️💚

#AlmaLibre #NocheEstrellasBañosTermales

#disfrutona #librecomoelviento #MeEncanta

Baffled

November has been a month of unforgettable adventures!

We toured the Muga Mountains on an eBike, enjoying a dreamy natural bath. We also enjoyed a tantric massage workshop at our location and participated in an exciting Rogaine. We ate oysters and took a dip in Leucate, explored Sant Martí del Canigó, and relaxed in some hot springs in the Pyrenees. An eBike tour through La Garrotxa rounded out a month full of unique experiences!

Cultureofbathing has a piece (Mar. 15) on wellness and the question:

'Whatever happened to the leisurely bath?

The article looks into the bathing art in/of many (Euro) countries, past and present.

Could it be just doing nothing, that's just a major part of the attraction of soaking? 

Be it in hot springs, sauna's, hammam's and assorted. Wherever you are?

So with this we start another overview of Europe's soaking and soaking culture.

France. 23b~log (Jan. 12) heads over to centre of the country's Chaudes Aigues:

'We were visiting in mid January 2025 at the time we had something like -10ºC outside during the night and little more during the day. I just wanted a hot bath at this point and was willing to pay entrance to enter a pool. I know it’s not uncommon for spas to be closed for the cold season: But I will remain baffled, furious and sad. Sacré bleu'.

Marks: just 1

Bert, the blogger on 23b~log, then continues further south to explore and report (Jan. 14) on Rennes-les-Bains. 

Considering that outside temperatures were freezing, it's not at all surprising that he misses the best bath, simply because the ambient temperature ensures the hot water cools down too much to enjoy. It (Rennes) is still awarded a 6.5:

'The coldest days of the year are not ideal time to bathe here, since the only hot option is quite crowded and not exactly hygienic. I can imagine having a better time in summer when he other sources become warm enough to enjoy'.

In the north of Portugal, not too far from Galicia.

Canalaltotamega (Mar. 20) reports on the new thermal hot spring fed complex opening in Chaves. Unfortunately the artcle is unquoteable.

I looked up the Termas de Chaves website:

'Part of the main Wellbeing area, the Aquae Salutem Complex [Termal Aquae Salutem] features a diverse Hydrothermal Circuit, designed to revitalise both body and mind. Highlights include naturally heated Hydrodynamic Pools, between 30ºC and 36ºC, a Sauna and a Turkish Bath — ideal for purification and detoxification. The Sensory Showers, complete with sound effects and thermal contrasts, including an Ice Fountain, stimulate the senses and promote deep relaxation.

The space has capacity for up to 104 people. Access permitted for children aged 14 and over when accompanied by an adult.

Visit the Aquae Salutem Complex — the only one of its kind in Portugal — and discover a place where history, innovation and wellbeing come together in perfect harmony'.

Portugal News (Mar. 26) though does the news and in English:

'The center's new features include the Hydrodynamic Pools, which operate outdoors and are fed by naturally hot waters, at 76 degrees, which enhance the therapeutic benefits of this natural resource.

...

The complex has capacity for 104 people. It is the result of a total investment of 2.4 million euros, financed by the Northern Regional Operational Programme, and is integrated into the existing Termas de Chaves. The new space was built through the refurbishment of part of the old building, which also received new relaxation areas, service desks and changing rooms'.

Pounded

From 2 years back (8 Jan. 2023), adventurediary headed over to Tuscany for a wintery soak / adventure:

'After breakfast was a short drive to the first of two natural hot-springs we would visit in succession. Bagni San Fillipo is a series of hillside pools surrounded by forest. Its mostly visited by locals for its so called healing properties and flies a little under the radar. At this time of year it was very quiet and we were able to enjoy one pool just to ourselves. It was quite wet and dirty getting to the pools but once in, the water was nearly 40°C and very difficult to get out of again! After a couple of lovely hours there we reluctantly dragged ourselves away and made the drive through the countryside to our next overnight stop at Saturnia.

Saturnia

Saturnia is a spa town which has been inhabited, as most towns in this region have, since ancient times. Its most famous for its sulphurous hot-spring pools which cascade at the side of an abandoned mill. These pools hold water at around 37°C and are formed by the deposition of calcareous rock from the evaporation of the water under the gushing waterfall. Its really a spectacular sight and a joy to just lie in for much longer than is probably recommended!

The van park was quite dilapidated with very uneven access, a sanitary area that really needs an upgrade and a camper service that needed to be condemned. But it served a purpose even at a high price and as it was the only park-up within reasonable walking distance.

Arriving late in the afternoon we went immediately to the pools and were a little surprised to find it completely full. It’s an incredible natural phenomenon and still free to access so it has continuous traffic through the day. And although we enjoyed it, there were far too many people for us so we went back to the van and enjoyed a sunset meal and an early night.

The next morning we were already back at the pools before sunrise which seemed to be the perfect time for us as there were only 2 other people there for the next 60 minutes. We enjoyed a wonderful time jumping between the pools and being pounded by the waterfalls. We were already making our way back for breakfast and smelling of sulphur before the masses had even opened their eyes.

The Guardian (Mar. 21) with an interesting article on Napoli's possible next point of increasing volcanic activity:

'Photojournalist Alessandro Gandolfi has been documenting the Phlegraean Fields in southern Italy, where a record 6,740 earthquakes were recorded in 2024, and the seismic swarm has continued in 2025. The volcanic field has been active for more than 80,000 years. It is dotted with craters, lakes and fumaroles as well as roads, factories and the homes of more than 600,000 people.

...

Bradyseism, literally “slow movement”, continues to raise the ground across the Phlegraean Fields. It raised Pozzuoli by two metres in the 1980s, leading to the evacuation of 40,000 people from the Rione Terra neighbourhood.

Bradyseism has always existed in these parts. On the Roman columns of the Temple of Serapis you can still see the holes made by stone-eroding organisms, created when the ground subsided about 10 metres in the following centuries. For a long time they were submerged in sea water.

Two women enter the swimming pool at the Terme Vesuviana spa in Naples. The mineral springs connected to Vesuvius have been exploited for their health benefits since Roman times. Photograph Alessandro Gandolfi

Baden (Switzerland) Bad zum Raben bath cooperation has announced the hot spring fed baths are now closed, subject to renovation. 

Until 2026? 2027 even, according to the Badener Tageblatt (Jan. 21). 

More details on the changes, likewise published by the Badener Tageblatt (Feb. 12).

Wrapping up the hot springs, another slightly older share (Jan. 29, 2024):

NUOVE ZONE INESPLORATE 🔥 Sardegna in Camper Van ⛺️

Enrico Spano

Esplorazione in Van nell'entroterra del nord Sardegna, alla scoperta di terme libere, siti archeologici e paesaggi di incredibile bellezza!

00:00Intro00:21Terme libere05:19Domus de Janas11:21On the Road12:20Lago Lerno

Equal

The sauna world. From all over Europe. No better way to start than in Finland.

New York Times (Mar. 4) looks at the sauna and questions

'Can a Finnish Sauna Improve Society?

Despite the implications of a positive answer on this, it's just a teaser for a look into the architectural significance of Finnish sauna design:

'Finland now has a social welfare system that rivals those of its Scandinavian neighbors, and about three million saunas for its population of 5.6 million people. In these spaces — from tiny lakeside cabins to semipublic spas in city centers — “it doesn’t matter how much money you have or what you do,” says Saija Silen, a 48-year-old curator at the Museum of Central Finland in the city of Jyväskylä. “The sauna is the foundation of Finnish equality.”

The article then looks at the build of a sauna (the architects), changes of society (from public to private and back again (?)) and how sauna culture is Finnish culture. And vice-versa.

Arguably, we could also have started this section with Estonia. 

Nowness has a vdo on what they describe as the Mooska (Oct. 18, 2024) ritual. If you liked the Smoke Sauna Sisterhood, head here now. Description:

'In Haanja, Estonia, the Võromaa smoke sauna tradition is observed as a unique path to emotional and physical wellness – a profound healing ritual, continued by the region’s rural community. Honored by the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage for its importance to Estonian culture, the practice initiates a transformative journey for those who enter into it, rooted in ancient practice and integrating knowledge of local herbology in a spiritual, sonic experience.

From the verdant surroundings of Mooska farm, Eda Veeroja has become renowned for her sauna healing capabilities, documented in short [12 min.] film Mooska. Directed by Samuel Aarnio, the immersive documentary ventures deep into the ritual, as Veeroja constructs a sacred space between women seeking to clear a friend’s relationship trauma'.

An article from UK's Daily Mail (Mar 11), with a report on a visit to a typical Dutch 'spa'. But this being the sensationalist press, of course the emphasis is on the lack of clothing. The author though is out to promote  the clothelessness as neutral as possible; him being a British Naturism promoter:

'The spas are not ‘naturist’ places - the nudity is simply a means to an end.

The most effective way (the only way?) to get the right results from bothering to have a sauna in the first place is to allow it to affect the whole of your body.

You wouldn’t have a bath with your underwear on.

In practice - especially in February, when I visited - most guests wander around in their dressing gowns, only disrobing (literally) when they enter a sauna or pool.

What really sets these places apart from the UK experience is the sheer number of facilities.

The buildings themselves are not necessarily huge, nor need to be surrounded by manicured lawns, topiary hedges or classical statuary to attract clients.

They’re everywhere too and, it seems to me, treated by locals as we would a leisure centre or gym.

They’re packed - not to uncomfortable levels—but I mean popular. And to all age groups. Though it has to be said, in my late fifties, I’m often one of the older people spa-ing'.

Germany then, from Reddit (Mar. 27), the enquiry to what's second best:

'They all have the same logo as they are or were associated with Josef Wund, I loved Therme Erding, so was wondering what one is the second best to try? I know the Vabali ones, but I really liked the format of Therme Erding so want to try similar places.

Therme Bad Wörishofen

Badeparadies Schwarzwald Titisee

Thermen & Badewelt Sinsheim

Thermen & Badewelt Euskirchen

I also noticed another place called Obermain Therme has a similar logo, but I don't think it is related'.

The answer:

'Here's a ranked list of the top 100 Thermes in Germany for 2024 https://www.travelcircus.de/thermenurlaub

Therme Erding is #1 Therme Euskirchen is #2 Therme Sinshiem is #3 Therme Bad Wörishofen is #6 Obermain Therme is #8 and Badeparadies Schwarzwald is way down at #29 The three Vabali Thermes show up at #4, 7 & 15

As for ownership, Therme Erding is operated by the Global Therme Group. Euskirchen, Sinsheim and Schwarzwald are operated by a Therme Group subsidiary, Thermengruppe Josef Wund.

Therme Bad Wörishofen is not connected to the Therme group, but Jörg Wund is their managing director. There's probably an interesting family story about why he's using the Therme Group logo.

Obermain Therme appears to have no relation to the others'.

The ranking checked 300 thermen throughout Austria, Germany and Switzerland.

saunasherpa

Marvel 

Saunachannel advises (Mar. 12) all followers to head over to their site and visit their latest offering: Caucasian Healing Waters: Bathing in Georgia. 

A really beautiful shot and authentic overview of what's available in the country, concerning hot springs (most), wellness and sauna's. If you have 20 minutes to spare, it's really worthwhile.

Their description:

'Experience a transformative journey through the heart of Georgia, where ancient traditions and natural wonders converge in the healing embrace of its waters. Healing Caucasian Waters: Bathing in Georgia unveils the hidden sanctuaries and therapeutic rituals that have shaped the culture of this captivating land for centuries. From the mineral-rich mud of Akhtala to the steamy sulfur baths of Tbilisi and the serene natural springs nestled in remote landscapes, this film invites you to immerse yourself in the restorative power of Georgia's diverse thermal experiences. Discover the stories, the sensations, and the profound sense of well-being that these sacred waters offer, and witness how they continue to nurture both body and soul.

1. Horizons Kakheti, Republic of Georgia

...

2. Akhtala - Mud Treatment Resort

Akhtala is a sanctuary of therapeutic mud, a geological marvel where mineral-rich mud has been used for centuries to alleviate ailments. This resort harnesses the earth's ancient power, offering treatments that soothe and revitalize. The experience is deeply grounding, a return to primal healing, where the very earth itself becomes a source of restoration. The mineral properties of the mud are known to help with many physical ailments.

...

3. Tbilisi Sulfur Baths - Banya №5

...

4. Tbilisi Balneological Resort

The Tbilisi Balneological Resort is a modern haven dedicated to the science of healing waters. Here, advanced techniques blend with natural springs to offer a comprehensive approach to wellness. From mineral baths to specialized shower and underwater therapies, the resort provides a structured path to recovery and revitalization. It's a place where the therapeutic power of Georgia's waters is harnessed with precision and care to include massage with a bath attendant similar to a Turkish Hammam treatment complete with a kisa scrub and cleansing, followed by relaxation and finishing off with tea.

5. Vani Sulfur Pool (4H3P+RQ5, Дихашхо, Vani)

Hidden away in the countryside near Vani, this natural sulfur pool offers an unadulterated experience of Georgia's thermal bounty. The rustic setting, far from the city's bustle, allows for a truly immersive encounter with the healing waters. Here, nature dictates the pace, and the simple act of bathing becomes a profound connection to the earth's restorative energy. The open air setting allows for a very natural bathing experience. 

6. Tskaltubo (8JG2+HRR, Tskaltubo)

Tskaltubo is synonymous with radon-carbonate mineral waters, a legacy that has drawn visitors seeking healing for decades. The unique properties of these waters, naturally warm and rich in minerals, offer a gentle yet powerful therapeutic experience. The grand, somewhat faded elegance of Tskaltubo's sanatoriums speaks to a time when this town was a premier destination for health and wellness. The waters are known to help with circulatory and nervous system conditions.

7. Tekhuri Thermal Springs (958W+33J, Jikha)

Deep in the lush landscapes surrounding Jikha, the Tekhuri Thermal Springs offer a raw and untamed experience of Georgia's geothermal wonders. These natural springs, located in the riverbed of Abasha River provide a pure and unadulterated connection to the earth's warmth. The mineral water contains sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and silicon which is a testament to the healing power of these natural springs.

As the steam clears and the waters settle, Healing Caucasian Waters: Bathing in Georgia leaves you with a lasting sense of tranquility and a deep appreciation for the enduring connection between humanity and nature. Our film is an invitation to experience the transformative power of Georgia's healing waters for yourself. Whether you seek physical rejuvenation, cultural immersion, or simply a moment of serene escape, these ancient traditions offer a profound path to wellness. We hope this journey inspires you to explore the hidden spas and natural springs of Georgia, and to discover your own path to healing in the heart of the Caucasus.

Arguably Belgium's no. 1 thermal resort, Thermen Katara, has announced (Mar. 21) for the Easter period two additional suits-only days. The announcement on Facebook, seems to ellict astonishment.

Read this comment from Apr. 9 (translated):

'Today we went to swimsuit day..Honestly, a completely different audience, no real sauna goers, lots of noise, children, no peace, I would like to know when there are NOT many people, Sunday morning at 8 o'clock? And where did the scrub salt go? Or does that not work with those swimsuits??

A: apparently it stains swimwear, so yes it doesn't work with swimsuits.

kollektiv_hotel_regina

4wMercii bubikon!!

@kantonzürich @mo.prax @domenico_decoco @quirin_streuli @keramikzentrale @cilio_planet @linmidara @tommasuki @albalmaseda @brunnengehn @ritterhausbubikon

#brunnengehn #hallowasser #hotpot #brunnen #wasser #pumpen #velo #anhängerkupplung #publicspace

Finally, the Swiss initiative Brunnen Gehn has spent most of March touring smaller places in the Kanton Zürich (see photo above). Translated:

'The project dream comes true: "Going to the Fountains" tours villages, hamlets, towns, and the metropolitan area. With the "Going to the Fountains" tour through the canton of Zurich , we will travel through the canton from March 14 to April 1, inviting ourselves to ten towns and villages to heat the fountains and, in turn, invite the locals to join the bathing ritual in the evening. The "Going to the Fountains" project has existed in Basel since 2016. Every year from November to March, around 15 fountain heaters heat ten Basel fountains to a pleasant 39°C using a mobile wood-burning stove. In doing so, they revitalize the neighborhoods and transform public spaces into attractive meeting places, even in winter. A reception desk, mobile cloakroom, cold shower, footbath, and lifeguard complete the " Going to the Fountains" ritual'.

i_dipfele_4_4

Bei der Kälte sind heiße Quellen einfach herrlich.

Wir sind wieder mit Michl und Yvonne zusammen und werden auch gemeinsam Richtung Türkei fahren.

#thermophylae #heißequellen #gemeinsamreisen

Detours

tessabennion

Hotspring(break)

Another lengthy posting on the European soaking and saunaing scene, topical and all.

Totally on-topic to start off with.

Bert from 23b~log hotspring has been visiting a number of free Bulgarian soaks.

• Bedenski Bana, Smolyan (Apr. 25), this time round the highest score from Bert:

'This would gain perfect score if not for the closeness to the main road and slight trashiness'.

• Estestven izvor, Hisarya (Apr. 27): 

'Low temperature but very appealing surroundings: Come visit in summertime picknick'n'dip'.

• Topilsata, Velingrad (Apr. 27): 

'Maybe the low key environment makes this not the most conducive of options in Velingrad. Solid option nonetheless'.

• Toplata Voda, Shistov (Apr. 30): 

'... if you don't mind sulfurous hot springs, this is well worth a small detour especially if you're planing on using the ferry in Svishtov'.

Also on the visited menu (May 25), Strand Livada de Bihor, Oradea (Romania), a thermal pool / campsite :

'An excellent and affordable option caravan travelers looking for hot spring relaxation time. Wonderfully accommodating hosts and neighbors'.

Wanderlush yet again updates (Apr. 15) her article on Tbilisi's sulfur baths, all hot spring sourced. 

Hide_onsen_packer has posted a spate of entries on Europe, in Japanese. Hungary, Slovakia, Spain and Germany.

Already slightly shifting away from hot springs, we need to mention Wandering Carol again (Mar. 25), this time while visiting Vichy, central France. And her experience:

'If you do want to travel to Vichy, France, and are interested in the wonderful culture of the old-fashioned French spa, what you need are tips about the Vichy springs. The spring water is the raison d’être for this gracious, slightly-faded town in the Auvergne region of France.

...

Out of 12 Vichy springs altogether, 6 are available at the Halls des Source for drinking (the other 6 have been closed or lost), and it’s here where the social status lines of Vichy spa-goers are firmly drawn.

On one hand you have the Serious Spa Goer who comes to Vichy to cure. On the other hand is the dreaded category of fly-by-night water drinkers, the Spa Tourist.

...

The next day we skipped happily (okay, Mark wasn’t skipping) over to the Hall des Sources only to learn that without a special key card you can’t enter the serious side of the Vichy springs drinking hall, the side for professional drinkers.

...

Luckily, French spa rules are no match for two people with very long arms, so Mark and I learned to enter the public side where the tourists go and simply reach around the barrier to fill our cups with the heavy duty thermal springs such as Hôpital, Chomel or Grande Grille.

...

I sidled around Mark, reached around the barrier and filled my plastic cup with some comforting Grande Grille spring water. And I got caught.

A Frenchman hustled up to me and started shouting non! non! non! non! and rubbing his stomach, miming that without a doctor’s prescription I was about to a) either have a baby immediately or b) become dramatically and violently ill'.

It's quite odd how French hot spring and wellness culture seems so outdated. With these standards of hospitality, it's no wonder foreigners are hardly interested, nor do these appeal to the younger generations, French or otherwise.

Sip

Sauna culture then. In the traditional sense.

BBC head over to Estonia (May 16) to look into the local smoke sauna culture:

'After almost nine years in Estonia, I've been to more saunas than I can count, though never to a smoke sauna. I wasn't worried about the heat or the nudity. Even the idea of a cold plunge in between sweating sessions was exhilarating. It was this "soul" of the smoke sauna that made me feel a bit nervous.

...

Between sweating sessions, I relax in the cosy break room in front of a wood-burning stove. In what can only be described as half history lesson, half guided meditation, Veeroja talks about Võromaa's smoke sauna traditions while I sip hot tea and cold maple sap harvested from the trees tapped outside. As I have not once glanced at my phone, I have lost all sense of time'.

soulwatersauna

Over the past week I have been deeply immersed in Finnish sauna culture. Living in a beautiful log cabin beside the frozen Lake Näsijärvi, drinking in the silence and snowy views.

My cabin had its own sauna, in fact there were more saunas than cabins to sleep in, a beautiful if a little exuberant ratio. The smoke sauna was less than 50 meters away that when fired up, offered such a deeply penetrating warmth I really could have stayed forever, or at least until I needed the next round of avanto… before repeating, repeating and repeating.

Sauna culture is more than just a tradition—it’s a tightly knit community where everyone is connected. I decided sauna on this level is perhaps not the usual 6 degrees of separation but perhaps 1, or 2 at the most. From my Scottish shoreline home I’ve been inspired through the lens of social media, and for once I find this world is truly real, which feels more than a little magical. I met sauna shamans, sauna healers, sauna hosts, sauna builders, sauna geeks, stove builders, fire starters and many, many, many sauna lovers, saunavores and saunapaths!

I almost lost count of how sauna benches I sat on (it was 18 btw) but its not really about the number, its about the love and enthusiasm for learning and sharing that I found on these benches. A huge thank you to Wendy & Mika of @SaunaWave and @niktorrens for organising such enriching experiences.

As I continue to learn and grow, I’m excited to share more insights from my journey with you all.

I will share more over the next few weeks, there is so much more to share as I learn more and develop. As always there is so much more behind the little sauna that sits on Edinburghs shoreline, but it all started with a girl, a big dream and a whole lot of love - lets do this!

Sauna on, my friends! Let’s keep the love for sauna culture alive and thriving. Are you ready to join me on this journey?

📷 mainly supreme capture queen @wendinwonderland

#SaunaCulture #SaunaLife #SaunaTradition #SaunaShaman #SaunaHealer #SaunaAvanto #Avanto #SaunaGeek #SaunaScotland #SaunaEdinburgh

@britishsaunasociety @saunacorner @wendinwonderland @saunneur @terhensauna @saunakonkeli @koskisiiri

Nudeblog.ru publishes (Apr. 4) a Russian language overview of Aremenian banya's, twelve listed if I counted correctly. And two hot springs, Ankavan and Azrakan. Translated snippet or two:

'The list was compiled by Maria Slutskaya.

Bath comrade.

An experienced resident of Armenia, now Georgia.

https://t.me/mary_cherie

Marie conducts women's baths, does rebozo and swaddling, but if necessary, she will play cards.

...

[On Noyland:] There may be dissatisfaction with naked bodies while swimming in Sevan, because there are houses nearby where you can spend the night'.

juliasedova_julia

Бесконечная любовь к @moonfleur_ и @hoja.place [also listed]

Permitted

The evolving sauna culture. Part I.

As reported tirelessly here the Isles British see taking sauna as an upwards trend.

British Sauna Society shares a post (May 21) on their Sauna Summit Awards 2024, complete with links to the winners in the 9 categories:

Best Design @thesaltwatersauna

Best Urban Sauna @rooftopsaunas

Best Nature Sauna @haar.sauna

Best Waterside Sauna @driftwood_saunas

Best Social Prescribing Sauna @communitysaunabaths

Best Community Sauna @kilnsauna

Best Rituals Programme @beachboxbtn

Best New Sauna @fallenwillowsauna

Best Sauna Practitioner @janewittfireandice

Note, apparently Ireland counts as British. 

Also note that the British sauna culture is umm British ...?

In the process of looking into more info, I came across the instagram account of Emma O'Kelly:

'Writer
Sauna fan
Freelance journalist
Author of The Sauna, The Power of Deep Heat'

In the post

'Strip or not to Strip?

there are some comments which seek to answer and or explain to some extent the Britishness:

'emmaeokelly

@jkfrej I agree with you. It took me a while to be comfortable being naked as it’s not my cultural norm - it IS much more healthy and hygienic but it’s a big mindset shift for Brits.

...

saunavisitor 

For me, I sauna without swimwear whenever I can. Most often here in the UK that means a wrapped towel. From my experience in Germany, the important thing is that the textile free zone starts before the sauna room itself - everyone can shower their full body. This is the greatest downside of many seaside saunas - there isn’t anywhere you can shower naked. Often there’s not even a place to change so people are wearing a swimsuit they’ve travelled in. Even in indoor venues it’s rare to see a cubicle shower near to the sauna. Permitted nudity is just so practical!

A recap of the Sauna Summit day can be found here.

saunawave (in London):

(2+2)x(2+2). 02. 2022 was a special day, we celebrated @mesq birthday with steam and sweat! 🔥♨️🧖🏻‍♀️🧖

More saunas please! Reduce tension in our bodies and boundaries between countries.

We celebrate at the bath house @russianbathhouse with steams and the classic honey cake. Pictures of us in the sauna was during a special photoshoot event with @mikkel.aaland for his photo project “Naked Sweat” which is coming out later this year. Mikkel’s @perfect.sweat TV series is also out very soon! Stay tune. 🤩🔥💦

Thanks @russianbathhouse for continuing support to the bathing culture and the @britishsaunasociety.

Thanks @lanhamjp for the cake pic 🙏

Group pics make possible by @manfrottoimaginemore

#saunabirthday #sauna #mentalhealth #wellness #wellbeing #saunawave #britishsaunasociety #nakedsweat #perfectsweat #russianbathhouse #londonsaunahotspot #saunahotspot#meandmymonfrotto

Even Germany signals a changing sauna culture.

From Welt.de (May 3) a German language article on how sauna / wellness culture in Germany is getting ever so popular especially with the younger generations:

'Zum Abschalten zu zweit, zum Quatschen mit Freunden, sogar für Flirts treffen sich junge Großstädter vermehrt in Thermen. Woher kommt die Begeisterung, stundenlang in einer handyfreien Zone zu entspannen? Versuch einer Erklärung'.

Concerning the new Vabali Wellnessoase near Düsseldorf:

„Die Vielzahl junger Gäste ist wirklich auffällig, obwohl wir keine Erhebungen zu konkreten Zahlen führen. Wir treffen anscheinend einen Nerv – ganz sicher auch wegen des Ambiente“, sagt Stephan Theune [50% owner] auf Nachfrage. Schon als Jugendlicher sei er wegen des Gemeinschafts- und Freiheitsgefühls gern mit seinem Freundeskreis in die Sauna gegangen und wusste entsprechend, worauf er bei der Einrichtung Wert legt.

...

Laut dem Deutschen Wellness-Verband zählt die Bundesrepublik rund 2000 Saunabetriebe sowie zwischen 100 und 200 Thermen. Die meisten befinden sich in öffentlicher Hand oder gehören zu Hotels und Fitnessstudios.

...

Genau diese [textile free] Pflicht beklagen viele in den sozialen Medien: Der erzwungenen Freizügigkeit wegen käme ein Besuch für sie nicht infrage. Auch Theune zweifelte zwischenzeitlich. „In Deutschland, einem Land, in dem Nacktsein zum klassischen Saunieren dazugehört, geht nur ein Drittel der Bevölkerung in die gemischte Sauna. Entsprechend Sorge hatten wir, dass gerade die Jüngeren das gar nicht mehr machen“, bemerkt er. Und ein Mix – eine trägt Badekleidung, der nächste nicht? „Da fühlt man sich ja total unwohl, wenn man nackt in der Sauna sitzt, und dann kommen vier Angezogene in Bikini oder Badehose rein. Das hat dann direkt Freibad-Charakter.“

...

Aber „den jungen Leuten, die zu uns kommen, scheint es nichts auszumachen“, verteidigt Theune.

...

Lutz Hertel, Geschäftsführer des Deutschen Wellness-Verbands, bestätigt die neue Popularität der Thermen bei jungen Menschen. „Uns liegen entsprechende Daten zwar nicht vor, und es ist auch die Frage, ob es sie überhaupt gibt“, sagt er. Aber mit dem Aufkommen von Anlagen wie dem „Vabali“ oder „MyWellness“, bei dem Gäste Räume mit Sauna und Whirlpool mieten können, öffnete sich das Fenster für ein neues Publikum, meint Hertel'.

Appearances

Part II

In Belgium though the new sauna culture is still very open to fluctuation. 

Belgium's Saunavereniging (Apr. 12) with a public(?) message:

'In Belgium, 'bathing suit' spa days and bathing suit areas in a public wellness centers seem to gain popularity. And, rumor has it that the same counts for the Netherlands Although we love to welcome everyone who wants to spend a wonderful time in our saunas and thermal baths, with or without bathing suit, we keep encouraging without for the sauna experience itself, as it facilitates the body's ability to sweat and detoxify Did you know that people typically wear towels or robes for personal comfort outside the sauna, such as in communal areas or during sweat session breaks? This practice helps maintain modesty and ensures everyone feels at ease while enjoying the other amenities of the spa or sauna facility In other words: even in a nude area, most people remain covered for 90% of the time. The choice, of course, is always up to you!

Study case: Saunate near Gent. From their Facebook account, the announcement (May 23) that now Wednesdays and Saturdays are clothingoptional instead of textile free. Comments explain: that doesn't automatically mean that everyone feels comfortable ....

The meaning of sauna rules? 

In Austria a judicial case has moved forward. Kleinezeitung (Mar. 23) reports on a case before the judge concerning 3 men who entered the sauna clothed, in contradiction to the household rules of stated sauna. This then lead to a scuffle with other sauna visitors it seems and that's why a judge needs to settle the rights from the wrongs.

Finally (nearly) back to soaking, with an insta posting from Fromrusttoroadtrip (May 12):

'What we love so much about hot springs is their variety.

No two are the same temperature, or have the same mineral content, or possess the same healing properties. Each one is uniquely wonderful.

Some are warm, some are boiling hot and some are cold. Some are blue, or green, yellow, orange or clear. Some smell like eggs. Others smell like fresh spring water and mountain air. Some are gravelly, sandy, muddy or filled with clay. Some are natural, and some man-made.

Most of them are hiding at the end of a long, exciting treasure hunt.

But this one in the south of Spain was a true stunner, although more well-known than most we visit. Bubbling up from the bed of a vast dried-up lake is the largest pool of thermal water we’ve ever had the pleasure to swim in.

...

A true window of wild bliss.

...

🛑✋If you know it please don’t name it. This hot spring like many others in Spain is at risk of becoming overwhelmed with visitors. We want to share stories and post beautiful photos but we don’t want to contribute to overtourism, hence why we don’t share the exact location. As always bathe, enjoy and share responsibly 💙'

Not naming, but hinting. It's not Iceland (post upcoming?): 

gerardlebeau25

The best way to start your day 💙🤍 good morning everyone, everywhere..

Everyone

badekultur.ch

Thermalwasser für alle: In Baden und Ennetbaden kann unter freiem Himmel in "Heissen Brunnen" gebadet werden.

Das Projekt wurde realisiert vom Verein @bagno_popolare

badekultur.ch - Badetücher mit Lokalkolorit

#retro #swissdesign #swissdesigners #aare #regionaleprodukte #produitslocaux #badekultur #badekulturinundennetbaden #sommeramzuerisee #sommeramzuerisee #leaulairetmoi #rhiischwümme #rhyschwimme #wasserschloss #thermalbaden #aareschwimmen @aargautourismus #wasserschlossaargau #baden #ennetbaden

Another packed-to-the-rim post on Europe's soaking and bathing culture. 

Let's start with the latter, afterall it's the main purpose of this blog.

Joyce Mol shares (Jan. 13) her best soaking finds of Europe no less and her personal experiences. Iceland to Turkey.

A French post (Nov. 5, 2023) concerning the wild hot springs of the Têt and Tuch valleys.

Saunachannel has asked Nudeblog to produce a film on Georgian hot and mud springs (Dec. 14). It results in a good overview of what's on offer in Georgia.

nudeblogru at Nokalakevi:

Снимали для @saunachannel

Пленка by @sashakulak. Часть 1

Сакартвело’23

Over to Italy where most of this posts soaking info is referred from.

Rometravelouges (Jan. 23) has a good post on the hot springs (commercial or free) reachable from Rome, mostly to the north.

San Filippo is the northern most. 

Here's a recent post (Jan. 9) solely on this terme libere by Juma.

daniraccagni

LOVE IS MY MANTRA

Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made.

If you want a different result, make a different choice.

An article (Dec. 23) from Vogue magazine on Saturnia hot springs (Tuscany):

'It’s just before sunrise, and the lights of Terme di Saturnia resort are already out of sight. I’ve been walking in the dark for less than a mile, through the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, in pursuit of one of the region’s wonders: Cascate del Mulino, a 3,000-year-old travertine hot spring believed to have sprouted in the Etruscan era. Save for a few other intrepid souls who are also braving the crisp morning air, I’m alone.

Arriving at the waterfalls, set just below an old stone mill, I drop my robe and rest it on the white pebbles surrounding the springs before tiptoeing into the first of the steamy pools. The chill of dawn on my skin ceases as I float in the sulfuric waters, resting at a temperature of around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Soon, the crowds will arrive, but for now, I enjoy the oasis to myself, allowing it to both soothe and transport me. I wonder what it was once like to arrive here when the area had no resort or hotel nearby, when the Etruscans, and later the Romans, first began looking to the springs as a sanctuary for healing'.

For the rest it's a write up on the adjacent resort. 

Also note that once the sun has risen, these soaks tend to be packed beyond limits.

A recent posting (Jan. 28) from Termalismo medievale in Toscana. Il bagno di Caldanelle implies a beautiful soak near Sasso Piano:

Betty Bungle Toscana is wonderful

At the ancient Etruscan-Roman thermal complex of Sasso Pisano, hidden in a bush, a small source of very hot water (65 degrees ).

The Abandoned Village Spa Day You Can't Miss in Spain 

Shifting to the intermedium, mineral springs. Not hot, but naturally sourced.

The blog Wandering Carol has quite a spate of entries posted concerning bathing / soaking.

There's this post (Jan. 10) on UNESCO recognized great spa's of Europe:

'With my recent trip to the German spa towns of Bad Ems and Bad Kissingen (I also went to Karlovy Vary in Czechia, but I’ve visited there a million times so it didn’t add to my total), I’ve nearly reached my goal.

I’m determined to visit the 11 UNESCO World Heritage Great Spas of Europe. My count now stands at nine'.

Later that month she reports (Jan. 25) on Bad Ems:

'From the picture it looked like Bad Ems would have everything I want in a spa town: Belle Epoque architecture, a scenic setting, fresh air and plenty of nature to get out in.

Best of all I learned Bad Ems has 15 mineral springs that are still used in spa treatments and healing therapies today'.

The article looks extensively at everything one would want to do as well as a review of Bad Ems therme and (not hot) springs.

Earlier (Dec. 9), she had an extensive post on Karlovy Vary as well one (Dec. 21) on Bad Kissingen.

hamammagazine 

🌿 Ruth Kaplan’s Bathers 🌿 

From the thermal waters of Iceland to the historic bathhouses of Hungary - every photo in the ‘Bathers’ series tells a unique story of culture, relaxation, and connection. Kaplan’s lens captures more than just moments; it captures the essence of communal joy. 🏊‍♂️💦 

more on Hamam:Strange

Focus.de notes (Jan. 5) the newest wellness trend: Bio-hacking. Basically incorporating all available techniques to ensure a healthy stay:

'With the help of modern technologies, a special diet, exercise and other methods, sleep should be improved, stress reduced and one's own energy reserves mobilized. Biohacking also includes tracking your own health values. For biohackers, measuring pulse, blood pressure and weight is just as much a part of their routine as regularly monitoring their own blood values. Fitness trackers, smartwatches, smart scales, home blood tests, sleep monitoring apps and food diaries are essential tools for biohackers. Wellness hotels are increasingly offering health checks or basic sports medical examinations before a biohacking retreat. Here, certain weak points and risk factors can be uncovered and a tailor-made nutrition and fitness plan can then be created'.

Lovesauna

sauna_akka

Lankea loveen.

Suomen ensimmäinen mobiilihoitosauna Lovi avaa ovensa. Perinnesaunotusta, perinnehierontahoitoja, vihdontaa, villiyrttihoitoja.

"Vaivuin Lauran hyräillessä saunaloitsuja tilaan, jossa tuntui että olen taas äidin kohdussa tai vähintään kehdossa oman äidin hyräillessä lauluja. Siinä ei tuntunut olevan huolia, ainoastaan ihana rento ja turvallinen tila."

Tänä talvena Sipoonjoen Perinnesaunalla on mahdollista päästä tutustumaan Mielikin metsän Sauna-Akan saunahoitoihin Loven lämmössä. Varaa itsellesi yleisen saunavuorosi lomassa vihdonta tai vaikka yrtti- tai pesuhieronta. Pitkän kaavan perinnesaunotuksia tulossa myös tarjolle. Nautinto on taattu!

Tutustu ja varaa saunahoitosi vellossa, www.vello.fi/lovi. Linkki Sauna-Akan biossa.

Huom! Saunamaksu ja saunahoito maksetaan erikseen. Varaa saunahoitosi yleisen saunavuoron lomaan! Nauti maasavusaunan lempeissä löylyissä ja perinnesaunottajan taivaallisissa hoidoissa. Kerää voimasi ja nollaa itsesi!

#perinnesaunottaja #saunaculture #finnishsauna #healingsauna #kansanperinne #kylpy #vihdonta #hieronta #kansanparannus #parannussauna #sauna-akka #loitsu #saunotus #bathing #perinnesauna

Over to the sauna news.

From Reddit, an overview (Dec. 2023) of European sauna etiquette. 

And nearly 100 comments on how this overview is missing all kinds of nuances. 

Clearly European sauna culture is more diverse than the map below suggests, with lots of niches. So complex.

Inews (Feb. 5) columnist Sarah Magill comments on German sauna culture:

'Entering a sweaty wooden cabin full of happily naked people for the first time in Berlin was uncomfortable, of course.  I found myself grappling with self-consciousness on two fronts – over my own body and in an attempt to conceal my intrigue at the variety of appendages on display. But I enjoyed the ritual of the sauna, especially the Aufguss (meaning “infusion”) procedure, during which a member of staff pours scented water on hot coals and skillfully disperses the resulting heat around with fans, for an even, more intense, sensation.

...

But in Germany, saunas are a common feature of most sports facilities and there are at least 20 public saunas in Berlin alone. Sauna culture is a big deal here. Last year, well over a quarter of the German population frequently went to the sauna or steam bath in their free time.

...

Having become accustomed to the German sauna etiquette, I was struck by the complete absence of it during a visit to a local health centre in southeast London last year. Everyone was sitting directly on the wood in soaking wet bathing suits, creating an overpowering smell of chlorine, until one elderly gentleman doused the coals in far too much oil he’d brought in a bottle from home. People were also coming and going after only a few minutes – seemingly not knowing what they were supposed to do in there. A German would be bemused, I thought.

It made me realise that the UK would really benefit from adopting German sauna culture. By introducing more public saunas and promoting a nudity-friendly environment, Brits could gain access to the physical and mental benefits long cherished in Germany'.

Sustainablejourneys (Jan. 16) has a look at the sauna culture of Finland and notably that of the city of Tampere:

'There are a staggering 60-odd saunas scattered across the Tampere metropolitan area but most, like this one, Rajaportti – strangely perhaps to outsiders who generally associate saunas with the luxurious spa retreats where they are most commonly found in other parts of Europe and North America – are quite modest affairs. Here, in a squat, unadorned building where entrance fees are collected without ceremony at a hatch, the pomp and priciness of much Western wellness is refreshingly absent.

‘I think of myself as a sauna classicist,’ confides Lembke [Alexander Markus Lembke], who is also available for hire as a guide to novices unfamiliar with Finnish sauna etiquette. ‘A real sauna is very different to how the concept has been interpreted in other places, and I want to show people that. Rajaportti is in a working-class district, you could be anyone coming in here, rich or poor, and when you do you’re all equal. The most shocking aspect for those coming to a Finnish sauna from the UK, or the US, is that everyone is naked. No clothes. Remove clothes and you take away miscommunication. In saunas here you encounter all body shapes and sizes, fat, thin, the old, the young, little ones of just a few weeks old, all equal, all relaxing and sweating. It’s a healthy thing for society.’

...

Once disrobed and inside, it’s all about the steam. Lembke’s role at Rajaportti is as saunan lämmittäjä (sauna heater), an art that he assures me is so complicated to perfect that it is considered a highly regarded job'.

The Guardian also delves into Finnish sauna culture (Dec. 6). Surprisingly with reference to Tampere again!

'But in Finland not only are saunas plentiful – an estimated 3.3m for a population of 5.6 million – but the culture around them is unique. Having originated to fulfil a very practical need for heat and sanitation, the sauna’s significance in Finnish society now goes far deeper – perhaps even to the essence of what it is to be human.

....

Tampere’s public sauna legacy goes back to the early 19th century, when the city was an industrial centre, out of a need for a communal place for primarily working-class people to wash, says Tuomas Paloniemi, from the tourism bureau Visit Tampere. “They needed to bathe, and bathrooms or private saunas were not so common in those residences.” By about 1820, there were more than 100 public saunas in the city, he says.

...

Sauna definitely contributes to Finland’s happiness levels, Koskenniemi [Janne Koskenniemi, the executive director of the Finnish Sauna Society] says. He compares the impact of regular sauna-going to having therapy. “When you’re in the sauna you’re naked in the physical sense, and you’re naked with your thoughts and your standing in society. It’s just you.”

Now I'm slowly losing my bearings: where are we? 

Let's continue with a sauna review then, from nearby Norway. Womanshealthmagazine accepts a paid sojourn (thus very positive) to the Wells spa in Oslo. The report (Jan. 17):

'Situated in the midst of the Norwegian wilderness, The Well is all about taking time out from your daily (stressful) routines and making time for slowing down, eating well, resting and de-stressing.

Since it’s surrounded by this frosty dreamscape, both the spa and hotel take inspiration from the Nordic woodlands. It’s the kind of place that might actually prompt you to feel a little less prudish (read: British), since all cares about nakedness are left firmly at the front door'.

_natalis._

ℛ𝑒𝓁𝒶𝓍 𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒 ♡

Then to the Irish Times (Jan. 14), as it looks at the emerald isle's own soaking traditions:

'Beach saunas have been a phenomenon of the past 12 months, and yet getting sweaty has a heritage in Ireland dating back to ancient times.

...

A 2021 study by Katie Kearns and Timo Ylimaunu recorded the sites of 290 sweat houses in Ireland, with the majority being found in Leitrim and its neighbouring counties. This was followed by Leitrim County Council’s Leitrim Sweathouse Project, conducted in partnership with the Heritage Council, which trained volunteer archaeologists and researchers, and added 19 more to the tally. They are sure there are more'.

The article concludes with mentioning a couple of seaside sauna's from around Ireland.

This fits here. The Guardian (Jan. 7) looks at the burgeoning Scottish sauna scene:

'This is Scandinavian winter living par excellence: but it’s not a Nor­wegian fjord or Swedish forest – it’s the banks of Loch Fyne on the west coast of Scotland. This is one of a growing number of Scandi-style ­outdoor saunas across the coastline where locals and visitors gather through the long, dark northern ­winter days in search of company and warmth, and to boost their physical and mental health'.

Gift

Some real news items.

As reported late last year, the BBC (Jan. 19) now notes:

'A Finnish sauna that was gifted to the UK after the 1948 Olympic Games has been granted Grade II-listed status.

The Märkische Allgemeine reports (Jan. 24) on problems with the Kristalltherme Ludwigsfelde. Apparently complaints are of guests getting too excited. 

A day later there's an interview with the company's CEO (Kristalltherme Ludwigsfelde is one of Kristall Bäder AG) whereby he explains that with nearly 500,000 annual visitors there's always going to be a very few who seem to go beyond the rules. 

So much for society wanting to extend the nakedness = sex.

badekultur.ch 

Im Zürcher @museumgestaltung entdeckt: Historische Werbeplakate für Badekuren in Baden und St. Moritz

Die Ausstellung "Talking Bodies - Körperbilder im Plakat" läuft noch bis 25. Februar. Sehenswert!

badekultur.ch - Badetücher mit Lokalkolorit

#retro #swissdesign #swissdesigners #serviettedebain #segeln #rudern #societenautiquedegeneve #schweiztourismus🇨🇭 #tourismswitzerland #suissetourisme #regionaleprodukte #produitslocaux #regionduleman #vaudtourisme #badekultur #badekulturinundennetbaden #sommeramzuerisee #sommeramzuerisee #leaulairetmoi #rhiischwümme #basel #baselswitzerland #rhyschwimme #zürich #züri

Finally sauna and culture. 

From the Reykjavik Grapevine (Jan. 16), they look at how Iceland contributed to the success of Smoke Sauna Sisters:

'To learn more about Iceland’s creative input, I met the film’s co-producer, Hlín Johannesdottír, at Sundhöllin public swimming pool on a busy morning right before Christmas. With water steaming on the rocks, we sat for a chat in the warmth of the public sauna.

...

Could the Icelandic hot pool culture compare to the sauna rituals? Hlín isn’t positive. “The smoke sauna is like a whole different level. Nothing that is talked about in there goes out anywhere.”

Sauna Times lastly reports (Jan. 7) on building your own Finnish smoke sauna.